Pattern Review: 5 Out Of 4 Eleanor Cardigan

Please join me in welcoming Tasha, a fabulous new guest contributor! She shared a different version of this pattern in the Facebook Group and I just had to ask her to share more about it here on the blog for our Kimonos and Cardigans Theme. Now, on to her review!

Pattern Name and Description

The Women’s Eleanor Cardigan from 5 out of 4 Patterns is a relaxed fit cardigan with a drapey front that can easily cross over.  The pattern includes optional hood, waist tie belt, pockets, and elbow cuff with button.  

Size Range 

XXS-5XL (Bust 31-57”, Waist 26-54”, Hips 34-61”)

Size made and My measurements

Based on the measurements chart, which includes bust, waist, and hips, I made a size XL.  My measurements are bust 44, waist 38.5, hips 47, and I am 5’3.  The only adjustment I made was to shorten the sleeves .5”.  The pattern includes finished measurements for body length and sleeve length as well as lengthen/shorten lines on the pattern pieces.

Fabric

For this version I used French Terry fabric.  I have made previous versions from hacci sweater knit, cotton lycra, and quilted knit.  All fabrics met the minimum stretch requirement for the pattern of 15%.

Instructions

I found the instructions clear and easy to understand.  They include technical illustrations as well as a key noting right and wrong sides of the fabric.   While there are print guide layouts for both 8.5×11 and A4 versions, there is not a cut guide.  I rarely use it even if it’s included in the pattern but still worth noting.  I agree with the suggestion of using wonder tape when attaching the pockets and I also found it helpful when attaching the neckband to keep everything lined up.   As with any sewing project, you should read through all the instructions prior to beginning.

Fit

The pattern is described as having a relaxed fit which I feel is accurate.  It is more of an outerwear/layering piece rather than a form fitting cardigan that fits closer to the body.  For my body shape and style preferences it works well.  The generous size range and finished measurements make it easy to grade if your measurements fall across multiple sizes.  The pattern also includes layers so you can easily print multiple sizes.

I would like to mention this pattern has a dropped shoulder and it may be necessary to make a full bicep adjustment to the sleeve because of where the seam is located.  While I did not have to make this particular adjustment, I did find a tutorial on the 5 out of 4 blog.  https://5outof4.com/sewing-school-full-bicep-adjustment/

Overall Pattern Rating:

Size Range (1-5): 5 I haven’t seen very many indie designers with such a wide size range so that was appreciated

Instructions (1-5): 4.5 Thumbs up for having technical illustrations because I much prefer those over photos.  Pattern includes a cut chart but not pattern pieces for the knit bands, cuffs, belt loops, and tie pieces.  

Construction Process (1-5): 4.5  The instructions do jump back and forth between pages if you opt for the elbow cuff button option so be sure to pay close attention.  Jump links are included to make it easier.  

Final Fit (1-5): 5 Relaxed fit is accurate and sizing is true.  You could size down if you wanted a more fitted look but I don’t think it was drafted for that particular style.

Overall Rating (1-5): Solid 4.5.  I have made this pattern 5 times now and really like all of the versions for different reasons.  There are some limitations style wise such as not being able to add a button closure because it was meant to overlap, however you can easily accessorize with a belt as shown in one of my pictures.  The pattern went together well and I like how easy it is to layer with it.  I definitely think it is a good wardrobe staple.